Auction Procurement? Ugh…procurement. Even the name sounds difficult! But it doesn’t need to be that intimidating if you break it down and have a plan. Auction procurement is one of those fundraiser ideas that has to be successful in order for your auction to work.
Who knows who? It is really quite simple: co-workers, friends, family, neighbors, vendors you use or who are in your community, etc. Everyone knows someone who has the potential to either give you something for your auction or connect you to someone who can.
Follow these auction tips to get the most out of your procurement efforts.
What do they like? What can they afford? What is really hot or popular right now? Would these items “fit” your audience? If your attendees are older, they might like longer trips, more elegant restaurants, items for the grandkids, museum or theater tickets, etc. A younger crowd with smaller or school age children would probably prefer family oriented items and experiences, trendier restaurants and perhaps vacations oriented to the family.Be specific: Provide donors with a menu of possibilities of items you are looking to secure for your auction. If you are too vague it is much easier to say no.
Ask! If seems really simple (and it is!) but you must make the ask! Not everyone can give and people will say no. But the more you ask the better your chances of success!
Confirm and Close the Deal: It is important to verify the item, collect the item (or certificate) and determine the value of the item. Make sure that you have a procurement form with you and that the donor completes it. Confirm the pick up of the item(s), time, date, etc. and make sure that you don’t procrastinate. The majority of procurement needs to be done well in advance of the event to ensure items are listed properly in the program and advertised for your guests.
Make a plan and stick to it: Like anything, procurement planning is critical. If you can envision great things…they just might happen. Have your categories determined ahead of time…for example, trips, ladies night out, restaurant packages, sporting event experiences, memorabilia, etc. Wish lists spur even more ideas for your volunteers to get their creative juices flowing.
Make it special: Your auction can be known for being really creative or offering twists on traditional items. Procuring one of a kind items like “Be a fighter pilot for the day”, or TV news anchor for a day, or for creating unique pairings of items that make better packages than if they were just sold alone.
Auction procurement can either be a pain or an activity that can be energized and really fun. Your organization's network is full of great ideas and auction items...you just need to know who to ask and not be afraid to do it! Good luck with your auction procurment!
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